If you have never used a table saw before, you are probably unaware of how aggravating it is when the piece of wood you are pushing through the saw goes off course. While many of these units have a rip fence, these are simply not going to cut it all the time.
The best table saw fence would not allow the board to be caught. It will be accurate when you measure, so there will be no reason your board will not be a perfect fit to whatever you need it for.
Here we have compiled the top five best after market table saw fences, along with a comprehensive buyer’s guide and frequently asked questions. Our goal is to show you the pros and cons of each one, as well as any highlights or features the saw fences have.
Table Saw Fence Reviews
Shop Fox W1716
The Shop Fox W1716 is built to last with a beefed-up extruded aluminum and heavy-duty steel construction. This table saw fence is 57 inches in length and fits most saws on the market.
With an easy single locking cam action lever, the fence is easy to position with high precision.
Pros:
● Simple to read, measurements can be taken with the included magnified cursor.
● This fence contains a steel and aluminum body for extra durability, reduced weight, and strength.
● The fence pads are adjustable.
● The heavy-duty single locking cam action lever can be operated with one hand.
● With the purchase of this fence table saw, a self-sticking tape measures SAE and metric increments.
● No deflections will take place when guiding the boards due to torsion box design.
Cons:
● This fence table saw has a rip capacity 30-inches only to the right of the blade.
● The mounting holes on this fence table saw did not line up correctly.
Vega U26 Table Saw Fence
The aluminum body with an epoxy coating, this fence table saw makes our list of best fence table saws as it is durable and will last.
With a rip capacity of 26 inches to the right and 8 inches to the left, this saw fence will provide plenty of space for all your projects.
Whether it is a cabinet saw or hybrid saw, this table saw fence fits various table saws. The fence bar measures 36 inches.
Pros:
● The U26 runs velvety smooth.
● There is lots of room for making contact when it comes to the rip capacity.
● To level the surface, you can use jacking plates.
● The table saw fence is exceptionally sturdy.
● The fine-adjust dial provides exact measurements.
Cons:
● This table fence saw does have metal burrs from the manufacturing process.
● The fence does require time to install. This holds especially true if you are not familiar with the table saw fences or do not have many skills when running these saw fences.
Shop Fox W1410
Our third pick for the best table saw fence is from Shop Fox. Model W1410 will fit any saw with 27-inch tables. Ball bearings provide a smooth rolling movement.
With durable construction, this table saw fence has standard rails. The unit itself feels well made and remains steady cut after cut.
Features on the W1410 include a high-quality look and feel, quick movement, and a one year warranty.
Pros:
● With easy to read instructions, anyone can quickly put together this saw table fence.
● Priced much lower than other table saw fences, this unit is a reasonable choice for any woodworker.
● On both sides of the fence, there are positioning knobs. These allow the unit to be easily adjusted when need be.
● Most cuts will have ample space due to the rip capacity of 25 inches.
● Individuals that are right or left-handed can use this table saw fence.
● The table saw fence comes with a one year warranty.
Cons:
● The saw fence has a very basic design.
● As there are extra parts that detach, it does take longer to assemble than other table saw fences.
Delta, 36-T30T3
Taking our number four spot is the Delta 36-T30T3 Table Saw Fence. While an affordable option, this saw fence is secure once you have locked it into place.
The measuring tape is placed all along with the unit for easy measurement. A three-point locking system with twin hairline pointers is used in construction. This system ensures the fence will be parallel to the blade. It will also guarantee accurate results within 1/64 of an inch.
This table saw fence features a rigid structure, quality build, and a steel body. It is also compatible with all other Delta table saws.
Pros:
● This table saw fence holds a rip capacity of 30 inches to the right of the blade.
● The Delta 36-T30T3 is perfectly square.
● The unit comes with a 2-year warranty.
● There is little to no give on the guiding surface.
Cons:
● This fence supports only 27 inches table saw.
● More mounting holes may need to be drilled out.
Shop Fox W2005
Rounding out our list is the Shop Fox W2005. This saw fence offers maximum support due to the wide right-angle design.
Low sliding resistance is provided by a single locking cam action lever HDPE plastic fence surface. The fine-lined magnified cursor is mountable on either side of the fence. The simple mounting procedure can be used with most table saws.
Pros:
● The body of the fence is powder-coated for durability.
● Most table saws can accommodate the 42-inch fence.
● Fence removal is simple to do with a lift-off design.
● Long rails can provide a rip capacity of 54 inches.
Cons:
● This unit is on the very pricey side.
Buying Guide For the Best Table Saw Fence
Fence systems for table saws come in a wide variety of sizes. Many on the market today fit various systems, but others must be used on a particular table saw.
We have created this guide to determine which table saw fence is the best for your situation. You will want to look at various factors, such as their rip capacity, how easy they are to install, and the unit’s price tag.
Our buying guide for the best table saw fence will take all the guesswork out for you.
Factors to Consider Before Purchasing
It is essential to consider the following factors before purchasing a table saw fence. The best table saw will fall into line with many of the factors listed below.
Table Saw Size
It is crucial to pick a table saw that is the right size for your needs. A lot of table saws with different sizes out there, which is why saw fence comes with a variety of sizes
You must check what size of the fence your saw will work with. While some are universal, others only fit on one or two table saws.
Installation
If you are not a patient person, you will want to look for a table saw fence that is easy to install.
Many of the ones on the market require you to drill your own holes, as it is impossible for a manufacturer to know what the spacing is on every table saw.
Do note that some table saw fences will require one to shim and adjust. If you are not good with tools, it may be best for you to look for a different type.
Rip Capacity
Some tables saw fences come with extended rails, which are essential for making massive cuts.
Rip capacity does vary from every model. Some models have only a small rip capacity. Others have a large rip capacity that will allow rips larger than a standard sheet of wood.
When looking into rip capacity, think about the average piece of wood you intend to cut.
Also, think about projects you may be using the table saw for. Then plan for the rip capacity.
Weight
Generally, look for a table saw that weighs between 30 to 50 pounds. If you go with anything lighter than this, it will most likely not have a high-quality manufacturing process.
On the flip side, if you go with something too heavy and you may have a harder time moving it around your shop.
Features of a Table Saw
The many features that could be included on a table saw are as follows.
On and Off Switch
This switch can usually be seen on the front of the table saw. A large switch is often used for the off button while the on switch will generally be smaller.
Storage
Many of the table saws on the market today have little storage units to hold various things that woodworkers may need. You may wish to store many items such as safety glasses or goggles, push sticks, blades, rip fences, and more.
Dust Shoots
Many woodworkers opt not to use these as they may have forgotten about them. But these are handy little bags that can make cleaning up much more comfortable. The dust shoots are easily hooked up to a vacuum, which means you will not break the particles in.
Tips For Operating a Saw With a Fence System
The following tips can be utilized when operating a saw with a fence system.
1. Always use a push stick with a width of 6 inches or less.
2. Use the right balance when using your table saw. Keep the feet far enough apart, so you are comfortable.
3. Always wear proper eye and ear gear. This includes safety glasses and hearing protection.
Regular eyeglasses are not considered safe.
4. If you feel uncomfortable at any time, you need to stop and re-evaluate your position.
Perhaps there is a better way to stand or move your hands.
5. One should never reach over or behind the blade. If you need to, make sure the table saw has stopped running.
6. Before turning on the table saw, make sure the blade is turning freely by spinning it a few times.
7. Never maintain the machine unless the table saw is turned off and unplugged.
8. Before cutting the board, examine it for anything that could be considered a projectile, such as nails.
9. Keep your tabletop clean. One that is dirty will force you to push the wood harder through the machine.
10. Before every start, check the blade guards and splitters to ensure they are operating as they should be.
11. All jewelry should be taken off, and loose clothes secured before using a table saw.
12. A dust mask should be worn to keep dust out of the respiratory system.
13. If you need more workspace, consider a table extension. This will also provide you with the ability to have a larger rip capacity.
In Conclusion
If you are into woodworking, a table saw with a fencing system is a must to add to your supply of power tools. Most woodworkers use their table saw the most out of any power tools they own.
If you are looking for a model made from heavy-duty materials, go with the Shop Fox W1716. But if you are leaning towards a table saw that is universal, you may wish to go with the Vega U26 Table Saw Fence.
The Delta, 36-T30T3 is an affordable choice for any woodworker, while the Shop Fox W1410 has easy to read instructions for those that may struggle with putting this power tool together.
If a huge rip capacity is what you desire, you will certainly want to look into the Shop Fox W2005.
The best table saw fence will allow you to work safely while making the cuts you need.
FAQ About Table Saw Fences
Why do you need a table saw with a fence?
The fence on a table saw will offer a parallel surface for straight cuts to be made with the blade.
What side should the fence be on the table saw?
The fence on the table saw can be placed on either the right or left-hand side. It depends on if you are right or left-handed.
Is it possible to use a table saw without a fence?
It is not a safe idea to use a table saw without a fence. However, some skilled pros feel no issue to use the table saw without a fence. If you doubt yourself or have not been using a table saw for long, always use a fence.
Why does a table saw fence kickback?
Kickbacks can happen at a moment’s notice, so it is essential to prevent them. If the board pinches the blade, or the piece of wood gets caught between the blade and the rip fence, a kickback can occur.
How can you prevent kickbacks on a saw fence table?
By ensuring that the riving knife is installed, you can be confident that a kickback is prevented. The riving knife can be taken off if desired, and should be replaced occasionally.
What are rip cuts?
Woodworkers that use hardwoods that have grain in them can make rip cuts. These cuts are generally the most common cut made on table saws.
These cuts are super dangerous, so we must use a pushing stick.
What is a miter gauge?
A miter gauge is a tool that will guide your wood to obtain a cut at the specific angle you desire it to be.
Can you use a rip fence for crosscuts?
It is not a good idea to use a rip fence for crosscuts. Instead, it would help if you used a miter gauge.
Is it a good idea to wear work gloves when using a table saw with a fencing system?
It is never wise to wear work gloves while using a table saw with or without a fencing system.
The main reason for this is because tactile sense is lost when gloves are worn. And you certainly do not want a loose glove getting caught in the saw. Gloves also sometimes make it impossible to press the control buttons.
Does it matter what kind of shoes you wear when using a table saw?
Yes, it does matter. Look for a pair of shoes that are non-slip as this will help to keep your footing secure.